CUSTOMS DUTIES: SOUTH AFRICA TO EGYPT

Overview of Customs Duties from South Africa to Egypt

When exporting goods from South Africa to Egypt, businesses must navigate Egypt's customs framework, which is characterized by moderate average duty rates but complex bureaucratic procedures. Egypt maintains an open trade policy aimed at attracting foreign direct investment, though importers should be prepared for slower customs clearance processes. The Egyptian government has implemented various tariff reforms to protect domestic industries while facilitating international commerce. Understanding the specific duty rates, documentation requirements, and regulatory environment is essential for successful cross-border transactions.

General Duty Rates

Egypt applies duties on a Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) basis. The following table outlines duty rates for common product categories exported from South Africa to Egypt:

Product Category	Duty Rate	Notes
Average across all imports	10.5%	Standard applied rate; individual rates range from 0% to 60%
Electronics and Media	Varies by HS code	TV screens and monitors subject to 40% unified tariff
Automotive Goods (1600 CC engine)	30%	Reduced from 40%; applies to oil and electric engines
Automotive Goods (higher engine power)	100%	Reduced from 135%
Electric Automobiles	0%	Fully exempt from customs fees
Machinery and Equipment (production use)	Varies by HS code	VAT reduced rate of 5% applies
Personal Care and Hygiene Products	20%	Includes toothpaste, shaving creams, medical soaps
Sportswear and Cotton Protective Uniforms	20%	Made of cotton and synthetic fibers
Baby Strollers	20%	Reduced tariff rate
LED Bulbs and Light-Emitting Diodes	0%	Fully exempt; plastic and glass components at 5%
Medications (infectious, chronic, psychiatric, neurological)	0%	Completely exempt from customs fees
Medical Equipment for Dialysis	0%	Fully exempt
Oil and Gas (non-processed)	0%	Exempt category

Value-Added Tax (VAT)

In addition to customs duties, importers must account for VAT calculated on the CIF value:

• Standard VAT Rate: 14% applied to most goods
• Reduced VAT Rate: 5% applied to machinery, equipment for production, agricultural supplies, necessary foodstuffs, and oil goods
• De Minimis Threshold: Egypt operates with a 0 EGP de minimis, meaning duty and tax are charged on all imports regardless of value, unless preferential trade agreement treatment applies

Required Documentation

Exporters from South Africa must prepare the following documentation for customs clearance in Egypt:

• Commercial Invoice detailing product description, quantity, unit price, and total value
• Packing List showing detailed contents and packaging specifications
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill proving shipment details
• Certificate of Origin confirming South African origin of goods
• Import License (where applicable for restricted goods)
• Product-specific certifications (quality, safety, health certificates as required)
• Insurance documents if goods are insured
• Any preferential trade agreement documentation if claiming duty reductions

Important Regulations

• Bureaucratic Procedures: Egypt's customs procedures are known to be slow and cumbersome; allow additional time for clearance
• Non-Tariff Barriers: Egypt maintains various non-tariff trade barriers that may affect market entry
• Prohibited and Restricted Items: Certain goods may be prohibited or require special permits; verify product eligibility before shipment
• Labeling Requirements: Products must comply with Egyptian labeling and marking standards, typically in Arabic
• Tariff Classification: Correct HS code classification is critical as rates vary significantly by product code

Trade Agreements

Egypt is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and maintains at least 12 trade agreements offering zero or significantly discounted duty rates for goods manufactured in participating countries. South African exporters should investigate whether applicable bilateral or multilateral agreements provide preferential treatment. Egypt also maintains numerous bilateral agreements with Arab countries that may offer advantages for specific product categories. Claiming preferential treatment requires proper documentation and certification of origin under the relevant trade agreement.

Recommendation: Consult with customs brokers or trade specialists familiar with South Africa-Egypt commerce to ensure compliance and optimize landed costs for your specific products.